This time last year, the Central Australia Redtails managed to beat St Mary's by four points - a fairytale result in their NTFL debut.

They went on to win three of the four trial games scheduled as part of their campaign to become a permanent part of what is now regarded as an exclusively Top End competition.

This year, they've managed to secure the substantial funding needed for a further eight games - and tomorrow night will see them take one of the oldest sides in the league, the Waratahs.

But down at Albrecht Oval for one of the final training sessions, founding member of the Red Tails, Rob Clarke, says whatever the result, the team is already a success story.

With close to fifty players showing up at the twice weekly training sessions, something is clearly working.

"It's not about winning football matches, if the lads are good enough that will take care of itself," says Rob.

"It's about change, unity, all of those things I think are important for a community to prosper..."

Last year's co-captain, Ryan Mallard, echoes these thoughts.

"Just putting this whole concept together I think is the amazing feat, is that we've gotten to this stage...it's got all of us from all different teams, all different communities, we're all playing under the one banner now."

He says the nerves are starting to kick in but he's confident about the season ahead..

"The NTFL teams know with our performance last year in the four game trial, they know that we're going to give them a good go," he says.

The final line-up for the match was announced at a special dinner at the RSL last night, amongst them, all-rounder Willie Foster.

"The fellas [are] enthusiastic and ready for this weekend, [they're] pretty much jumping out of their skin," he says.

"Footy lovers, non footy lovers, come down and support us, it'll be a great spectacle...we've got some talented players and we'll put on a show!"

The NTFL Round One match between the Central Australian Redtails and the Waratahs is at Traeger Park at 7pm.